MCAS 29

• Origins and Designation: Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) 29 Palms, often called "Twentynine Palms," was originally established as the Naval Auxiliary Air Station in 1942 during World War II. It later became a Marine Corps facility. • Largest USMC Base: MCAS 29 Palms is the largest United States Marine Corps base by land area, covering nearly 1,100 square miles in the Mojave Desert. • Home to MAGTF Training: The installation is home to the Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command (MAGTFTC), providing combined arms training for Marines and allied forces. • Live-Fire Ranges: The base boasts some of the most extensive live-fire and maneuver ranges in the country, supporting large-scale combined arms exercises. • Desert Training: Its harsh desert environment allows Marines to prepare for combat in similar climates around the world, most notably the Middle East. • Exercise Steel Knight: 29 Palms regularly hosts Exercise Steel Knight, a major annual exercise testing the combat readiness of Marine units. • Historic Aircraft: The base has hosted a variety of historic military aircraft, including the F4U Corsair, the F9F Panther, and modern helicopters and jets. • Expansion Controversy: In recent years, MCAS 29 Palms expanded its boundaries, absorbing parts of the Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Area, sparking debate with local recreationists and residents. • Notable Units: The base is home to the 7th Marine Regiment, 3rd Battalion 11th Marines, and the Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School, among others. • Community Relations: The base has fostered strong ties with the local civilian community, hosting events like the annual air show and partnering in environmental conservation efforts.